Recently joined Cleveland-Bolivar Chamber of Commerce staff
Lauren Powell, who most recently served as Executive Director of the Bologna Performing Arts Center, was named the new Director Of Tourism at the Cleveland-Bolivar County Chamber of Commerce last week, replacing the recently departed former director, Sean Johnson, who left the position last month for a similar job in Texas.
“After much encouragement from the community, I’m elated for the opportunity to work with the Cleveland Bolivar County Chamber of Commerce,” said Powell. “I’m extremely grateful to our Executive Director, Hannah Aguzzi, for the opportunity and excited to work under her leadership!”
Powell continued, “I’m most excited to have a platform to share my love for the Mississippi Delta—a place I’m so proud to call home. I think the connections, friendships, and partnerships I’ve been fortunate to cultivate through my time at Delta Arts Alliance and BPAC have given me a strong foundation. I’m ready to hit the ground running with a great set of tools and a network of people who share the same mission: bringing folks to this incredible region and continuing to grow our audience.”
Powell’s official first day at her new job was Tuesday, September 16. She said that she realizes she has large shoes to fill taking over for Johnson, but is prepared and ready for the challenger of boosting tourism in Bolivar County.
“Sean Johnson did an amazing job thinking outside the box, and I’m excited to build on the creative work he started to elevate tourism,” said Powell. “I’m just extremely grateful for the opportunity and the outpouring of support. This is the place to be!”
“We are thrilled to welcome Lauren Powell as our new Director of Tourism. Her energy, creativity, and passion for showcasing our community will be a tremendous asset as we continue to grow tourism and share all that Cleveland and Bolivar County have to offer,” said Aguzzi.